30 Children's Books of Poems That Don't Miss A Beat

Hannah Scott said:  I absolutely LOVE this collection of poems selected by Belinda Hollyer because it's all about the many different types of families (and the complex dynamics of each one). These poems discuss moms, dads, grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, and even more complicated relationships than that! Blended families and adoption are also addressed, and the poems are a great balance of funny, nostalgic, thoughtful, sad, and serious.

Hannah Scott said:  Haikus are often one of the first types of poetry introduced to kids, since they are just three lines each and a total of 17 syllables. These haikus, selected by George Shannon, are arranged in an order that tells the story of a spring day. With brightly painted illustrations, this is a fun read to celebrate the spring season!

Judith Viorst's children's book of poems covers everything from feelings, school, family, and traveling to friendship, seasons, mysteries, and more. This well-rounded book reads like a poetry sampler with something for every interest and mood.

Children's picture book of poetry that shares the stories of notable young women who achieved great things, from fossils to firefighting.

Newbery Award-winning Kwame Alexander (author of middle school favorite The Crossover), Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth collaborate on a book of original poems honoring the famed poets who inspired them. The mixed-media artwork is amazing, too.

Kelly R said:  This book will spark an interest in the poetry of hip hop and an appreciation for creative writing, especially for kids who aren't usually into poems. Features poems by Maya Angelou, Tupac Shakur, Langston Hughes, Queen Latifah and more. Kids can follow along with the words to many of the poems with an included CD featuring recordings from the poets themselves.